Tropical Birdland, Leicestershire facts for kids
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A free-flying macaw on a roof at Tropical Birdland, Leicestershire. It is a Harlequin Macaw (Greenwing/Blue and Gold hybrid)
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| Date opened | 1984 |
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| Location | Lindridge Lane, Desford LE9 9GN, United Kingdom |
| Coordinates | 52°37′54″N 1°17′49″W / 52.631611°N 1.296870°W |
| Website | Tropical Birdland |
Tropical Birdland is an exciting visitor attraction located in the village of Desford, Leicestershire, England. It's a special park where you can discover many different kinds of birds, including bright parrots, unique toucans, impressive hornbills, and wise owls. What makes it extra cool is that some of these birds are allowed to fly freely outdoors during the day, right above your head!
Tropical Birdland first opened its doors in 1984. Since then, it has become a popular spot for families and bird lovers. It's a great place to learn about birds and see them up close in a natural setting.
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Discover the Birds of Tropical Birdland
Tropical Birdland is home to a wide variety of bird species from different parts of the world. You can see birds that live in rainforests, deserts, and even your own backyard! The park is designed to give visitors a chance to observe these amazing creatures and learn about their lives.
Parrots and Macaws
One of the most popular groups of birds at Tropical Birdland are the parrots and macaws. These birds are famous for their bright colors and their ability to mimic human speech. You might hear a parrot say "hello" or even sing a tune!
- Macaws: These are the largest parrots, known for their long tails and strong beaks. They come in many vibrant colors like blue, gold, and green.
- Cockatoos: You'll recognize cockatoos by their crests (feathers on top of their heads) that they can raise and lower. They are often white or black.
- African Greys: These parrots are not as colorful, but they are known for being very smart and good at talking.
Toucans and Hornbills
Beyond parrots, Tropical Birdland also features other fascinating birds.
- Toucans: These birds are easy to spot because of their huge, colorful beaks. Even though their beaks look heavy, they are actually very light! Toucans use them to reach fruit and to attract mates.
- Hornbills: Hornbills are unique birds with large, curved beaks and often a casque (a helmet-like growth) on top of their heads. They are known for their interesting nesting habits, where the female seals herself into a tree cavity.
Owls and Birds of Prey
The park also has a section dedicated to owls and other birds of prey. These birds are hunters with sharp talons and excellent eyesight.
- Owls: Owls are mostly active at night (nocturnal). They have special feathers that allow them to fly silently.
- Falcons and Hawks: You might see different types of falcons and hawks, which are powerful hunters that catch their food in flight or from the ground.
What to Do at Tropical Birdland
Visiting Tropical Birdland is an interactive experience. It's not just about looking at birds in cages. The park offers several ways for you to get closer to the birds and learn more.
Walk-Through Aviaries
One of the best parts of Tropical Birdland is its walk-through aviaries. These are large enclosures where you can walk inside with the birds flying freely around you. It's an amazing way to see birds up close, sometimes even landing on nearby branches.
- Always follow the rules inside the aviaries to keep both you and the birds safe.
- Remember not to touch the birds unless a staff member tells you it's okay.
Free-Flying Displays
On sunny days, some of the birds, especially the macaws, are allowed to fly freely outside the aviaries. You might see them soaring high above the park or even landing on special perches. This is a fantastic chance to see these magnificent birds in action, just like they would be in the wild.
Learning and Conservation
Tropical Birdland is also a place for learning. The staff are very knowledgeable and can tell you all about the birds. They also help care for birds that might have been injured or need a safe home. Zoos and bird parks like this play an important role in educating people about wildlife and helping to protect endangered species.
Plan Your Visit
Tropical Birdland is located in Desford, Leicestershire, making it easy to reach for a day trip.
- Location: Lindridge Lane, Desford LE9 9GN, United Kingdom.
- Website: You can find more information about opening times, ticket prices, and special events on their official website: Tropical Birdland.
It's a great place to spend a day with family and friends, surrounded by the beauty and sounds of tropical birds.
